Hi everyone,

I am finally looking into surgery. I will be attending a seminar on Oct. 4th I have thought about it for at least 6 years and have alot of friends that have had gastric by-pass surgery. after much thought, I have decided on the lapband. It will be great to have someone to talk to that has already gone through the procedure. I weigh 295 at 5'6. I have loss weight on diets but gain it back after a few years. I am interested to know if any of you have had surgery with Dr. Coirin or Dr. Coates in Modesto, CA. all my friends had their surgery in Fresno.

Hi... I am attending a seminar on Oct. 4 as well. I'm 5'4" and about 260? (I dont own a scale! too depressing) Anyways, I know you were looking for someone who has already gone through lapband surgery, but it would be great to keep in touch and motivate each other through this process. I am in Richmond, VA. Good luck to you as you start this journey!

Welcome to both of you!!!

I found joining the MONTH group is very helpful since you are both in October -- I didn't see an official one like we have for April -- but go to this location: http://www.lapbandtalk.com/f98/

These individuals are in the same frame of mind as you -- also check out the month previous to see where you are going (i.e. September's).

Or the local group - such as: http://www.lapbandtalk.com/f67/newly-banded-williamsburg-31233/

Readers Digest version of my story -- goes like this.

I did my research for bypass surgery and decided that is what I wanted to do - but scared I couldn't (no diet soda and such OMG!) - so early Sept 06 (@339lbs) I started eating as if I had surgery (including no soda's) - did my seminar - read books and online. By Thanksgiving (310 lbs) I was convinced - I can do this - but due to self pay knew it would be after February - so I drank my diet soda's in limits - still watched what I ate but no stressing if I goofed - especially due to the holidays - Thanksgiving - Christmas - New Year's - Superbowl (LOL). March 1st I went back to Consult with Dr T (@ 310lbs)- and asked if I qualified for LapBand due to my size - he said absolutely! So I made the surgery date 4/9 - and went back to my mentality of eatting as I have had the surgery (last ditch to be sure I can do this.) Lost 10 more lbs. Started my optional preop diet - lost another 7 lbs (293 lbs.)

Since surgery lost 40lbs in 22 weeks (5 mo's)!!!! Slow and steady - that is what they (Doctors) want -- and boy oh boy am I doing that.

I would be glad to help and assist the two of you --- if you have questions -- ask away!

BEST WISHES - and many Hugs for your new journey!